Red Sea Chaos Tests U.S. Navy

The U.S. Navy is facing challenges in the Red Sea from Iran-backed Houthi rebels launching precision weapon attacks, prompting the need for sufficient force structure and cost-effective defense strategies. Encounters with armed drones and missile systems could provide valuable insights for countering threats in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly from China's military buildup. As the Navy grapples with conflicts in the Middle East and the rising threat from China, safeguarding maritime commerce remains a critical responsibility.